Fed officials predicted in December that they would raise the benchmark rate three times this year. But they have cautioned that changes in fiscal policy could alter those plans. If Mr. Trump and congressional Republicans seek to increase growth, for example by cutting taxes or spending a lot on infrastructure and the military, the Fed could raise rates more quickly.

If Mr. Trump’s policies weigh on growth, the Fed could move more slowly. –NYT

The focus is on British philosophers, who once appeared regularly on the BBC and could speak plainly about big issues. They have disappeared from the landscape, to Britain’s loss, says the New Statesman. Now, they say, philosophers only write for each other in obscure journals.

Comment: No philosopher has ever been seen on American television, except for Homer Simpson.

The base wants blood and a measure of revenge for Republicans’ refusal to vote on Pres. Obama’s nominee for the Court. That makes opposition easy for Senators from Deep Blue states, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley, who has already promised to lead a filibuster.

But there are a half-dozen Democrats facing races in states Trump won easily, and Gorsuch himself has all the right credentials for the appointment.

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♥ Hat Tip for helpful suggestions:◆ Bob Lipson for the article on free speech at the University of Washington◆ Shlomo Dror for the Theresa May quote